An insight into the plans of the powers that be at European champions Chelsea when it comes to loanee Saul Niguez has been forthcoming on Thursday afternoon.

Saul steps up

The name of Spanish international Saul of course took its place centre stage in the headlines late last night.

This came after the 27-year-old provided those of a Chelsea persuasion with a timely reminder of what he is capable of, when firing on all cylinders.

Thomas Tuchel’s side played host to capital rivals Tottenham on Wednesday, eventually emerging on the right side of a 2-0 scoreline to plant one foot firmly in the final of this season’s Carabao Cup.

And Saul, heavily criticised since his summer loan arrival in west London from Atletico Madrid, played a starring role.

The Spaniard, amid questions over the possibility of his best days being firmly behind him, stepped up to the plate in a major way, in an all-action display in the middle of the park.

‘Unlikely’

So significant was Saul’s impact on Wednesday night, that it has even led to calls amongst some sections of the Chelsea fanbase for the club to reconsider their stance on his signing.

It is understood that the Blues boast a £30 million option to make the Atletico man’s arrival permanent come the summer, albeit with all signs, to this point, having pointed towards Marina Granovskaia and co. utilising such funds elsewhere.

And now, as alluded to above, a fresh insight into the situation has been provided.

The info comes courtesy of Simon Phillips of The Athletic, who has confirmed that, as things stand, it looks altogether ‘unlikely’ that Chelsea will opt to open discussions with their Atleti counterparts over the possibility of extending Saul’s stay beyond the close of the campaign:

‘It is unlikely Chelsea will sign Saul permanently for £30 million in the summer but at least there are signs he can make a difference.’

 

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